Hanover, Germany – green Party lead candidate for Baden-Württemberg, Cem Özdemir, urged delegates at the party’s federal conference in Hanover to present a pragmatic and forward-looking image, emphasizing the party’s capacity for progress without resorting to “radical slogans or slogans from cloud cuckoo land.” Özdemir’s call comes as the Greens aim to retain their sole state premiership in Baden-Württemberg, a key automotive region.
Özdemir signaled a willingness to navigate complex policy issues with nuance, notably avoiding direct confrontation on the contentious topic of combustion engine vehicles. He recently indicated openness to a potential slight delay in the planned 2035 ban on new cars with combustion engines, a position that diverges from some within the Green Party’s Bundestag faction who are advocating for a firm commitment to the 2035 deadline.
Addressing concerns about the cost of living,Özdemir stated,”There are no bans on speaking or thinking for me.” He also pledged a firm stance on law and order, declaring, “I don’t give any discounts for criminals, nor any cultural discounts,” and asserting opposition to anyone seeking to undermine a free way of life.
In a metaphor comparing effective political action to automotive engineering,Özdemir stated,”It would be like a Daimler without an engine,the body alone doesn’t set anything in motion.” He acknowledged internal disagreements within the party, admitting, “Sometimes I get really annoyed,” but defended the value of rigorous debate, stating, “But the argument about the matter was always worth it.” Özdemir, a prominent figure in the party’s “Realo” wing, emphasized understanding citizens’ concerns and the importance of grounded policy proposals.